We all love to wear shiny outfits embedded with golden and silver threads. But do you know what the technique of weaving golden and silver threads to create intricate patterns is called? Well, the sheen work you see on alluring outfits showcases the art of Zari embroidery. The embroidery work enjoys the capability of turning any everyday outfit into a noble festive wear piece. Still, only a few know about what Zari work is, the history of Zari work, and the prominence of Zari work in India.
Zari or zardosi is the main decorative material in Indian ethnic outfits like lehngas, sarees, and Anarkali suits. A lot of love and hard work goes into bringing this art to life, with artisans putting each thread meticulously through hands to create vividly detailed patterns. Also, "Zari" has been identified as one of the most ancient handicrafts by the Indian Government. This blog attempts to give Zari work the attention and love it deserves. So, let's walk through the ancient corridors together and witness Zari embroidery's making, history, and evolution.
The Art Of Zari: Combination Of Love And Excellence
The hand embroidery Zari work is a beautiful skill of weaving gold and silver threads to breathe a new life into any outfit. Zari, also known as Jari, are thin metallic threads of gold and silver that artists weave on silk textiles to create intricate motifs and patterns.
Zari patterns are gorgeous and have a royal appearance. In ancient times, artists utilized actual gold and silver threads with sequins and jewels to create stunning patterns that were adorned by kings and queens.
Today, the gold and silver threads are swapped with metallic polyester yarn making the handwork more light and durable. Also, over time, the artists manage to retain and enhance the style, elegance, and rich appearance of traditional Zari work. The creative Zari work of India and its gifted craftsmen that perform the art are praised worldwide. Modern women admire and wear Zari work kurtas and sarees at celebrations and weddings.
A Brief About The Making Of Zari Work
First, the craftspeople sew the fabric to a wooden frame (adda.) It is a wooden bed frame that is still popular in rural India. Also, the adda is exactly the size of the cloth, allowing it to stretch when embroidering.
The needlework is then loosely drawn on a blank sheet to make a stencil. Then, tiny holes are cut along the trace of the Zari work Design using a needle.
Furthermore, the artists put a powder mixed with kerosene oil on the stencil of the fabric. They repeat the method and then place the stencil pattern on the cloth. After this step, the artists utilize a specific needle and a hook-tipped awl, called the 'Zari,' to accomplish their task. They pass different embroidery threads with beads and sequins into the fabric to create designs.
What's special about this procedure is that 4 to 5 artists sit around the adda for this task. They sit on the floor to sew the design. Also, the adda is approximately the size of the table, which allows working freely around the fabric.
Moreover, the artists glue sequins and spangles on the patterns to add more bling to the outfits.
Thus, a Zari outfit is worth a few weeks and the dedication of at least 4-5 expert artists.
History And Evolution Of Zari Work In India
The art of zari originated in the village 'Zari' of Persia, which is present-day's Iran. Artists weaved thin golden and silver threads on silk fabric to create intricate patterns. Persians brought the Zari work in India around 1700-1100 BC. However, this art flourished during the Mughal period, especially under the Mughal emperor Akbar's rule.
Originally golden and silver Zari outfits were not accessible to all due to the high cost. Thus, the embroidery work was only worn by the emperors, queens, and courtesans. However, with time and the evolution of golden and silver threads made of other metals, the Zari work started gaining prominence in every Indian woman's wardrobe.
Real gold and silver Zari are popular in the cities of Lucknow and Chennai. Apart from that, artificial Zari of polyester and cotton is seen almost in every state of India. Furthermore, the art that started with two colors of threads now has threads of more than 20 colors available with plenty of styles and thread types. Today Surat is the largest producer of Zari Work material, and South Indians are the biggest consumers of it. At the same time, its leading markets are Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, and Varanasi.
Difference Between Zari And Zardozi
Many people confuse the terms Zari work and Zardozi. However, the meanings are simple. Zari is the name of the fine gold and silver threads. In contrast, Zardozi is the name of the art of creating patterns with it. Real Zari, Metallic Zari, and Imitation Zari are popular types of Zari work.
Embracing The Art Of Zari
Zari work outfits instantly give you a royal look while giving your look the right amount of bling. For many people who have a keen eye for beauty, Zari outfits are still the first choice for festivities and weddings. By having a few Zari embroidered ensembles in your wardrobe, you keep the beautiful art alive, support your local artists and give a noble touch to your wardrobe. Check the Zari work suit design outfits that must be a part of your wardrobe. Read along and check out exclusive Zari outfits to bring elegance to your wardrobe.
The Royal Purple
This lovely chanderi silk fabric features exclusive Zari designs and is worn with palazzo pants and a scalloped organza dupatta. Its beautiful palazzo and dupatta have Zari detailing that will make you fall in love with them.
The Poised Peach
The perfect Zari outfit is made from the finest Chanderi silk and embroidered with golden Zari thread work. It instantly gives you royal feels while keeping you cool and breezy throughout. Moreover, it comes with complementing pants and a dupatta with Zari detailing.
The Majestic Pink
With this beautifully embroidered chanderi silk outfit, you can look elegant and majestic effortlessly. It is perfect for attending festivities. Moreover, you can also flaunt it at family gatherings and weekend brunches.
The Embellishing Green
Look pretty and feel royal with this vibrant green outfit. It is crafted with love to bring out your elegance. Made with Chanderi silk and finished with Zari work, this out is perfect for adding festive vibes to your wardrobe.
How To Flaunt Zari Work Outfits
Don't let the art of Zari go to waste because Zari work is already shiny and intricate. It is best to go for a monochrome look with minimal accessories and jewelry. For makeup, don't overdo with gold and silver color pallets. Let your outfits do the talking and bring out the best in you. Go for contrasting jewelry, footwear, and clutches to enhance your aesthetics in Zari outfits.
Find more Zari outfits with Priya Chaudhary Label and find pieces that exemplify "love at first sight" as a real thing. Being a brand that supports local artisans and the handloom and handwork heritage of India, Priya Chaudhary Label is the place to find ensembles that not only give center stage to the Indian traditions and heritage but are exclusively made for "today's women."
